New York City recently sued Ballyhoo Media for displaying "Times Square-style billboards" on a barge that travels along the Manhattan and Brooklyn waterfronts.  The City alleged that the company's illuminated billboards violate New York City laws that restrict the operation of water-based signs and also constitute a public nuisance.

According to the City's complaint, the New York City Zoning Resolution prohibits the display of advertising signs on vessels plying waterways adjacent to any of the three major types of zoning districts in New York City -- residential, commercial, and manufacturing -- and within view of an arterial highway. 

New York City is seeking an injunction against the company from operating the billboards as well as penalties of up to $25,000 per violation, per day.